Wakayama Adventure World アドベンチャーワールド

The 0.8 square kilometers that make up the giant wildlife theme park of Wakayama Adventure World is a fun destination for a family day out. With a safari park, zoo, aquarium, and amusement park, there is enough to keep you entertained for the entire day.

Wakayama Adventure World is easily accessible by bus from Shirahama Station (20 minutes) and Nanki-Shirahama Airport (5 minutes). From Tokyo: Fly directly to Nanki-Shirahama Airport From Osaka: Take the JR Limited Express Kuroshio from Shin-Osaka Station to Shirahama Station.

A distinguishing feature of this park is that many of the animals roam the grounds freely. Wander around with flamingos, capybara, and other creatures. Be sure to bring a camera for a memorable selfie!

Given the vast size of the park, tackling it all on foot can be a challenge. The park has come up with a speedy (and fun) solution by providing small golf carts for guests to buzz around in. They are available for use in the Safari World area, and the only requirement is a valid Japanese or international driving license. Visitors without a license can still enjoy exploring on foot, bicycle, or by bus to see grazing herbivores. To encounter lions, cheetahs, and other carnivores, take the Kenya Train or a guided jeep tour.

Home to around 500 penguins across eight species, Adventure World proudly hosts one of the largest penguin colonies in Japan. Adventure World is the only one of just two facilities in Japan—and one of few worldwide—to have successfully bred the extremely rare emperor penguin, highlighting its unique expertise. In September 2025, the park celebrated the birth of its first emperor penguin chick in four years, now charming visitors on public display.

The park's Play Zone is a fun-packed area that includes a go-kart track, multiple roller coasters and a Ferris wheel with fantastic views of the ocean.